No sure thing

Though the U.S. national team has failed to generate a full measure of respect in the soccer world, one takes the U.S. lightly at one’s peril. Four instances in which the United States failed to prove easy pickings for more traditional soccer powers:

1994: Colombia

Led by midfielder Carlos Valderrama, Colombia was a popular dark horse candidate to win the Cup before it faced the United States in the Rose Bowl. A 35th-minute own goal by Andres Escobar turned the momentum to the U.S., and Earnie Stewart’s 52nd-minute goal gave the host country what would prove to be an insurmountable lead. A 2-1 victory was the spark that would get the United States to the second round.

2002: Portugal

With a “golden generation” of players just hitting its stride, Portugal was a popular tournament favorite heading into its group opener against the United States in Suwon, South Korea. Thirty-six minutes into the game, the stunned Portuguese found themselves down, 3-0. The U.S. held on to win, 3-2, and eventually reached the quarterfinals.

2006: Italy

After watching the United States get hammered by the Czech Republic, 3-0, Italian fans could be forgiven it they believed their Azzuri would have no problems in the second group match. What they saw instead was a slugfest, featuring three red cards. The U.S., down to nine players for most of the second half, gamely held on to escape with a 1-1 tie. It was the only blemish on Italy’s record on its run to the championship.

2010: England

The Sun tabloid in London ran the headline “EASY” to describe the group draw for England, which included the United States as an opening opponent. But when goalkeeper Robert Green fumbled Clint Dempsey’s long shot and let the ball dribble into the goal, the U.S got out with a 1-1 tie, and would eventually finish first in the group.